Accessing Pure Consciousness: The Search for Truth in the Now.
5,327 words · 40 min readLet's embark for a moment on a journey of self-discovery and unveil the illusory nature of the physical world, cultivate inner peace, and connect with our true nature. In this article, I dive into the transformative power of living in the present moment and explore practical insights and pathways to inner peace. Delving into the wisdom of ancient Eastern philosophies and Christian mysticism, I aim to uncover ways to experience pure consciousness and a profound sense of Oneness. Along the way, I've discovered a unique design practice that utilizes furniture and objects as visual reminders, guiding the mind in accessing the transformative power of living in the now.
Illustration for Furniture & Self-Concept, a spiritual design project questioning if a piece of furniture can provoke self-exploration. Artwork courtesy of Martin Lenclos.
Table of Contents
The Illusory Nature of the World and the Path to Inner Peace
The Impossibility of Constant Blissful Meditation Without Continuous Practice in the Now
The Power of Living in the Present Moment in Nondualistic Philosophies
Unmasking the Ego's Trap in Seeking True Perception through External Circumstances
Spiritual Design: Using Objects as Signposts to the Present Moment
The present moment has become my all-consuming focus. I've come to realize that nothing else truly matters except for what happens in the now. As I've recognized its transformative power, this realization has brought me a powerful sense of peace. It is as if I've accessed a space beyond this world, beyond any physical place or thing, where I can feel connected to everything and everyone. That's the idea, at least, as I'm often brought back to my ego self, forgetting about this realization of Oneness and getting upset with past thoughts or future outcomes. But it feels very holy when I call upon to join in the present moment. A part of my mind suddenly opens up to the possibility of an error-free, faultless, and expansive state of being.
“In the state of pure consciousness, I have sensed an unwavering faith in the essence of life itself, transcending the transient and conditioned.”
Through immersing myself in ancient Eastern philosophy texts and exploring more recent universal spiritual-themed books, I have come to recognize a profound aspect of my being that is fully attuned to the present moment. It is a mind that is not separate but shared with all humanity. Although our thoughts may differ, we experience interconnection through a shared consciousness. Living in the present moment seems the key to awakening this collective mind to its existence. It raises intriguing questions: Are we currently dreaming of an individual self? Would it be possible for the people of this world to awaken permanently as a shared mind? My journey has instilled in me a profound sense that embracing this state of mind can lead to a deep interconnectedness with all things and foster a profound inner peace that I am committed to nurturing.
What I understand and see from this state of mind, from this vision, is something I'd like to share. How to access it is something I'd like to teach eventually. Even the most beautiful or exotic places cannot compare to the rewarding constancy and soothing unchangeability of the shared mind's vision of the present moment. The observing conscious awareness behind us projects a constant and unchanging place for anyone who seeks it. It can be a hallucination or the true nature of reality, with the world around us being nothing more than an illusion. Depending on the philosophy, that place where the one mind operates, the non-dualists call it Pure Consciousness, Nirvana, Tao, or the Kingdom of Heaven used both in the Bible and the recent spiritual self-study program, A Course In Miracles. Additionally and in Hindu philosophy, the place where Brahman (the ultimate reality and pure consciousness) resides is referred to as "Sat-Chit-Ananda" and is believed to be the highest state of consciousness and the ultimate reality. It translates to "Existence, Consciousness, Bliss".
The Illusory Nature of the World and the Path to Inner Peace
So what is the world we experience everyday then and where is it, in our mind? A Course in Miracles describes the world as a projection of the mind, portraying it as a dream of separation from the ultimate reality. It is possible that consciousness itself, referred to as Brahman, God, Tao, or another name, created the world for our enjoyment. Still, we may have forgotten that this reality is not truly real. To use an analogy of a movie theater, we could consider ourselves as the beam of light emanating from the projector rather than the projected images onto the screen. It is often attributed to Paramahansa Yogananda that he said,
"God is playing hide-and-seek with Himself through us. We are the living books of God. The alphabet that He writes in is made of atoms. We are the notes in His cosmic symphony. We are the beam of light that shines forth from the projector, and we are the images that are projected on the screen. There is no difference between the two."
This quote speaks to the idea that the world we perceive as real is a projection of our consciousness and that we are both the creators and the created. Yogananda suggests that we have forgotten that we are the beam of light from the projector, and have become too attached to the images projected on the screen. This attachment leads to suffering and the belief that the world is real, when it is an illusion created by our minds.
In my search for inner peace and connection with the present moment, I have realized that the world we know cannot provide lasting peace. The ego's constant search for satisfaction and fulfillment in the external world is an illusory pursuit, leading only to temporary and unsatisfying results.
As one begins to recognize the ego's constant desire for more, they can start to let go of their attachment to it and turn their focus inward.
According to A Course in Miracles (ACIM), the difference between the world we see with our senses and those described with the spiritual eye lies in their underlying nature and interpretation. ACIM teaches that the world we perceive with our senses, often called the "physical world," is an illusion, a projection of our thoughts and beliefs. It is a world of separation, conflict, and fear governed by ego-driven perceptions.
On the other hand, the world, as described with the spiritual eye, represents the world of truth beyond the illusions of the physical realm. It unfolds through the lens of forgiveness and love, where unity and Oneness prevail. In A Course In Miracles, the concept of forgiveness goes beyond the traditional understanding of the term. ACIM teaches that true forgiveness is the release of all judgments and grievances and recognizing that we are all one, all one spirit. This spiritual vision perceives the underlying reality beyond appearances and recognizes the eternal truth that everything is interconnected and part of a greater whole. Through forgiveness and a shift in perception, individuals can awaken to their true nature and experience a deep sense of peace and oneness with all things. Here lies the discovery of true fulfillment and lasting peace, transcending the illusions of the external world. As stated in the Course, "Forgiveness is the key to happiness. It is the means by which we will remember God."
The concept that the world is ultimately illusory and cannot provide lasting peace or fulfillment is a fundamental teaching of Advaita Vedanta. One of the primary texts that explores this concept is the "Vivekachudamani" ("Crest Jewel of Discrimination") by Shankara, a renowned philosopher, and theologian of Advaita Vedanta. In this text, Shankara emphasizes the importance of turning inward to realize our true nature as pure consciousness rather than seeking fulfillment in the external world. He argues that the world we perceive is a projection of our mind and that we are both the creators and the created.
“Like a dream, the world appears real so long as one is ignorant, but is found to be unreal when the Self has been realized. The world is like a mirage and a reflection of the sun in water, and appears to be real as long as it is not investigated, but is found to be unreal on investigation.”
The Impossibility of Constant Blissful Meditation Without Continuous Practice in the Now
Meditation and stillness have become my primary tools for accessing the profound inner peace that transcends our world. Explored in numerous spiritual and philosophical texts, mindfulness and meditation teachings emphasize stepping back and observing oneself as a gateway to inner peace. By stepping back and observing my surroundings from a detached perspective, I can call upon the observer within me and tap into the pure essence of spirit.
“Meaning is something human beings create or, in a sense, produce. We should sit without any expectation, even enlightenment. This sitting meditation [zazen] is “good for nothing”. It’s really difficult to encourage people to practice this way.”
Many nondual texts discuss techniques to access inner peace during meditation. Zen Buddhism, Zen meditation, or "zazen," involves sitting in a specific posture and focusing on the breath or a particular object. The goal is to sit, quiet the mind and cultivate awareness and presence in the present moment without any expectation. While it's essential not to seek enlightenment in this practice, it can lead to a deep sense of inner peace and connection with all things. Abbot Shohaku Okumura explains that even the desire for enlightenment is egocentric and, therefore, won't truly allow to experience pure consciousness. Just sitting, facing a wall, can transform the lives of those who dare to do nothing. Meditation without expectation is ultimately a practice that can help one exit this world.
But meditation for hours is neither practical nor realistic, so I had to develop a way to connect with the present moment and access inner peace whenever needed. Advaita Vedanta teaches a type of meditation called "self-inquiry," in which one turns their attention inward to investigate the nature of the self. The goal is to discover the true nature of the self as pure consciousness and to keep asking. Having realized that self-reflection and introspection are accessible at any time of the day, I was glad to find the teachings of early 20th-century mystic Ramana Maharshi. The question that Ramana Maharshi recommended for self-inquiry was, "Who am I?" This question aims to guide the individual into exploring their true nature beyond the egoic identity and toward realizing the true Self, or pure consciousness. By constantly asking myself, "Who am I?" and seeking the answer through introspection and self-reflection, I could gradually shed the layers of conditioning and false identification with the egoic self and come to a direct experience of the "true Self" or pure consciousness. In this state, the physical body becomes an afterthought, and the world has no hold on me.
Ramana Maharshi taught that karma's essence is knowing the truth of oneself by inquiring, "Who am I?". Unless one engages in inquiry to annihilate the ego, they cannot achieve the perfect peace of supreme bliss.
As long as I can attentively allow the truth to be in charge of my awakening, I experience a deep sense of Oneness with all things. In A Course In Miracles, one must continually focus inward and be vigilant of their thoughts and beliefs, releasing any judgments or grievances that arise. By maintaining a constant attention and awareness, one can access Oneness with all things, in a deep sense, that which is our True Nature. Through this practice of constant attention, we can awaken to the truth of our existence and experience lasting peace and fulfillment. Here is a passage from A Course in Miracles, Text 12.VIII.7, which speaks to the idea of constant attention to the truth:
"Constantly seek to increase your ability to accept the truth. This will enable you to progress from level to level, from world to world, and from one universe to another. Do not be concerned with how you are going to accomplish this, because this is precisely the ego's approach. Focus instead on what you want to accomplish, and be willing to experience whatever comes your way in order to achieve it. This will require constant attention and vigilance on your part, but it is the only way to achieve lasting peace and happiness."
The Power of Living in the Present Moment in Nondualistic Philosophies
Embracing the present moment has brought about a profound shift in how external circumstances affect me. I feel less surprised and destabilized and will often delay any reaction by letting things sit and unfold longer, often offering a solution before I can react. Eckhart Tolle has written extensively about the power of living in the present moment and how it can help us overcome challenges and attachments. In his book "The Power of Now," Tolle writes: "Realize deeply that the present moment is all you have. Make the NOW the primary focus of your life." He explains that by focusing on the present moment, we can free ourselves from the grip of our egoic mind and the pain and suffering it creates. When we focus on the present, we can fully engage with the situations and challenges that arise rather than being consumed by regrets about the past or worries about the future. This present-focused approach allows us to respond to problems with clarity and effectiveness rather than being driven by unconscious patterns or emotions.
The sketch depicts a man-bird flying out of a building facade made of file cabinets, symbolizing the liberation and freedom of living in the present moment in nondualistic philosophies. Artwork courtesy of Martin Lenclos.
“Give your fullest attention to whatever the moment presents. This implies that you also completely accept what is, because you cannot give your full attention to something and at the same time resist it.”
Additionally, Tolle writes about how living in the present moment can help us let go of attachment to our feelings and thoughts. By observing our thoughts and emotions without judgment or identification, we can see them as transient phenomena rather than an essential part of our identity. This approach frees us from being controlled by our emotions and allows us to experience a more profound sense of peace and contentment.
The present moment holds an incredible power that many nondual teachings describe as central. In Advaita Vedanta, for example, the present moment is seen as the only moment that exists, and it is the moment where one can access the truth of their own nature as pure consciousness.
"Yogastha kuru karmani" - Bhagavad Gita 2.48. This Sanskrit phrase means, "Established in yoga, perform your actions." It signifies the importance of being fully present in the current moment and engaged in the actions at hand rather than being lost in past regrets or future anxieties. True fulfillment and spiritual progress are found by embracing the present moment and wholeheartedly participating in the activities of life.
Some nondual teachings offer a glimpse of what joining the present moment can produce, including helping us escape from the world. The ABCD of non-dualistic philosophies, represented by not only Advaita Vedanta, Zen Buddhism, and A Course In Miracles but also Daoism and Eckhart Tolle's teachings, share the following message:
One must join the present moment to realize that there is no fundamental separation between oneself and the rest of the universe. Through experiencing total unity with all things, we can attain inner peace and end all suffering, physical and mental.
However, while these teachings offer a form of universal truth, we must remember that no one, using words, can fully describe or explain what God is. Jesus used parables, Lao Tze used poems, and Zen masters used koans to point toward the truth, understanding that the nature of the divine transcends human comprehension and language cannot fully express it. Instead, they used metaphorical language and paradoxes to invite the listener to experience the truth for themselves.
As Lao Tze wrote in the Tao Te Ching, "The Tao that can be spoken is not the eternal Tao. The name that can be named is not the eternal name." Only through direct experience, beyond words and concepts, can one begin to approach an understanding of the divine. Therefore, while these teachings may offer insights into the nature of reality, we must be cautious of assuming any single perspective as the ultimate universal truth. In his book "The Perennial Philosophy," the philosopher and mystic Aldous Huxley writes about the common thread of spiritual insight found in many religious and philosophical traditions. He argues that these traditions all point to a fundamental unity of all things and that the ultimate reality is beyond all concepts and words.
Many people have discussed the similarities between nondual teachings and the potential underlying universal truth they describe. One notable example is philosopher and spiritual teacher Ken Wilber, who has written extensively about the similarities and differences between various spiritual traditions, including the nondual teachings I mentioned. In his book "The Marriage of Sense and Soul," Wilber notes that "nondual teachings are all about realizing the nature of the Absolute or the ultimate truth, which is the same in all traditions" and that there are many commonalities between these teachings that can point us towards a deeper understanding of reality. Other spiritual teachers and writers, such as Eckhart Tolle, also explore the common threads between various spiritual traditions and the potential for these teachings to reveal a universal truth.
Despite the varied expressions and terminologies found in the diverse array of nondualistic philosophies (mentioned earlier as the ABCD), the teachings conveyed in these books converge on a shared understanding:
By releasing attachments to the past and future and fully embracing the now, we open ourselves to the boundless love available in every moment. By joining the present moment and recognizing that our true nature is love itself, we can access the transformative power of love and extend it to ourselves and others, thereby experiencing a profound shift in our perception of the world and finding genuine and lasting fulfillment.
The experience that arises from this practice is profoundly revitalizing. It unveils a pure inner peace that most adults may have only encountered once: during their time in the womb. Its power is immense, yet it demands little effort. It brings to mind the lyrics of George Benson's song, "The Greatest Love of All," which states, "The greatest love of all is easy to achieve. Learning to love yourself, it is the greatest love of all." As we embrace the present moment and recognize the interconnectedness of all things, we can finally perceive the timeless security bestowed upon us by our true nature and Consciousness. In the present moment, we glimpse the authentic experience of love and peace, which exists everywhere, every day, every single instant.
In the context of Jesus' teachings, entering the kingdom of God refers to attaining a state of spiritual awakening or enlightenment. In his conversation with Nicodemus, Jesus spoke about being born again. The discussion appears in the Gospel of John, Chapter 3, verses 3-7. Jesus said to Nicodemus:
"Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3)
Being born again refers to a profound inner transformation brought about by the Spirit of God. Jesus spoke about the power underlying this experience: It involves a shift in consciousness, a new way of perceiving and experiencing reality, and surrendering to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Jesus was inviting Nicodemus to embrace this spiritual rebirth as a necessary step to enter the kingdom of God and experience the deeper truths of divine existence.
While the ultimate reality, also known as Nirvana, Pure Consciousness, or the Kingdom of God, is beyond all concepts and cannot be described in words or images, By perceiving the inner transformation, individuals gain insight into the nature of reality and their true spiritual nature, which leads to a life of greater fulfillment, purpose, and inner peace.
Unmasking the Ego's Trap in Seeking True Perception through External Circumstances
Despite our efforts to find lasting happiness in the external world, true and lasting satisfaction is rare, even for those who practice meditation. As explained above by Mr. Okumura, even the desire for enlightenment, as if it is something to acquire, somewhat separated from yourself, can delay spiritual people in constant search to truly experience awakening.
“Most humans are never fully present in the now because unconsciously they believe that the next moment must be more important than this one. But then you miss your whole life, which is never not now. And that’s a revelation for some people: to realize that your life is only ever now.”
Similarly, Eckhart Tolle's teachings emphasize the futility of constantly seeking fulfillment and happiness in external circumstances or future events. He highlights the paradox when we place ourselves in a perpetual state of seeking but never truly finding. By fixating on the future and making it more important than the present, we create a sense of lack within ourselves. This constant seeking mentality perpetuates a cycle of dissatisfaction and prevents us from experiencing true fulfillment.
Advaita Vedanta offers a philosophy of "seek and don't find" that emphasizes that the true nature of reality cannot be found through seeking but can only be realized through direct experience. The philosophy encourages one to remove the obstacles that prevent them from realizing their true nature, which is already present and needs no seeking. One quote from the Bhagavad Gita that relates to finding happiness in the external world is:
"The pleasures that come from the senses are sources of pain and have a beginning and an end; they are impermanent, and so you must learn to endure them, Arjuna" (2.14).
Despite the limitations of seeking external happiness, the mind often creates a sense of lack that drives one towards worldly pursuits. In the Bhagavad Gita, detachment from external circumstances and control over the mind are essential in connecting with the Supreme Self or Brahman. As stated in the text,
"One who has control over the mind is tranquil in heat and cold, in pleasure and pain, and in honor and dishonor; and is ever steadfast with the Supreme Self" (Bhagavad Gita 6.7).
No matter what one desires to achieve, be it a soul mate, a job, success, or material wealth, there will always be some form of dissatisfaction in time. This is because the ego self can never be truly satisfied with one achievement, and it feels like nothing lasts forever. A Course in Miracles addresses this feeling of lack and inadequacy that arises from the belief in separation from our true nature. The Course teaches us to overcome the illusion of our sense of lack by recognizing our inherent completeness. Additionally, the scarcity and inadequacy that leads to suffering and unhappiness can be overcome by shifting our focus from the past and future to the present moment. By being present, we can recognize the abundance within us and around us, experiencing a sense of peace and contentment that is not dependent on external circumstances. The present moment is the only moment that truly exists, and by staying present, we can let go of our attachment to the past and future and experience the fullness of our true nature.
The Tao Te Ching, the classic text of Daoism, views the present moment as the key to accessing our true nature, which is inherently connected to the Tao or the natural order of the universe. To connect with this true nature, the Tao Te Ching emphasizes the importance of being fully present in the moment rather than dwelling in the past or worrying about the future. When we let go of our thoughts and attachments to external values, we can access a state of pure presence and innocence. One quote from the Tao Te Ching (Stephen Mitchell translation, Chapter 20) that speaks to this perspective is:
Stop thinking, and end your problems.
What difference between yes and no?
What difference between success and failure?
Must you value what others value, avoid what others avoid?
How ridiculous!
Other people are excited, as though they were at a parade.
I alone don’t care, I alone am expressionless, like an infant before it can smile.
Spiritual Design: Using Objects as Signposts to the Present Moment
Over the past couple of years, I have been designing objects to use as visual reminders/signposts to bring me back to the present moment whenever I encounter them in a room. I envisioned furniture pieces, design objects, and art prints that could discreetly guide us toward the exit from space and time. I refer to them as "self-questioning devices". Their role is to serve as a reminder to let go of our attachments to the physical world and the meaning we give to it and to cultivate a forgiving attitude towards it as taught in A Course in Miracles. Specifically conceptualized to not fall under the category of art nor design, these objects are prioritizing their intended purpose rather than focus on aesthetic or artistic expression. By accepting the uselessness and nonexistence of these objects, we are reminded of a world beyond this one and can potentially awaken our consciousness. Placed around the house, they provoke conversations, bring back the memory of the need for self-inquiry, or serve as a way to create space for meditation.
The digital rendering showcases the Valley Chair, a unique piece of furniture born from spiritual design. It exemplifies the concept of using objects as signposts to the present moment, inviting individuals to engage with their surroundings and deepen their connection to the present. Artwork courtesy of Martin Lenclos.
“The moment you realize you are not present, you are present. Whenever you are able to observe your mind, you are no longer trapped in it. Another factor has come in, something that is not of the mind: the witnessing presence.”
For anyone who would be aware of my intentions, these "signposts" point to a direction known to the owner. Look at one and you might remember the true nature of our being, return to presence in the now, recover a non-judgmental attitude, and access your inner peace. In Zen Buddhism, the concept of "beginner's mind" emphasizes the importance of approaching each moment with a non-judgmental, open, and curious attitude, allowing for a deeper connection with the present moment and a more profound understanding of oneself and the world. The "self-questioning devices" serve as a reminder to approach every thought, whether visual or physical, with a non-judgmental and open attitude, detached from worldly outcomes and the desire to gain something from it.
The uselessness of some of these objects I designed would remind us how none of the physical world around us means anything or that we've given them all the meaning they have for us. In Lesson 1 of A Course In Miracles, it becomes clear that we base our perceptions and judgments of the world on the meanings we ascribe to them. The Course teaches that our interpretations are not inherent in the objects themselves but rather projected from our minds. Thus, the things we encounter serve as reminders of our power to assign meaning, and through the practice of forgiveness and releasing judgments, we can shift our perception and recognize the oneness that underlies all forms.
“The physical world is but a canvas on which you project your thoughts and beliefs. Shift your perception, release your attachments, and you will discover a realm of peace and love that transcends the limitations of form. It is here, in the realm of the formless, that you remember your true nature and find the meaning that surpasses all illusions.”
Advaita Vedanta is another philosophy that speaks of the importance of stopping to give things more meaning than they deserve. The famous text, the Mandukya Upanishad, encapsulates this perspective beautifully with its profound insight:
'When all the knots of the heart are severed here on earth, then the mortal becomes immortal; this is the teaching of all the scriptures.'
Advaita Vedanta emphasizes that objects and the physical world are illusory manifestations of Maya, the veil of illusion. They hold no intrinsic meaning or value on their own. Our projections and attachments create a sense of significance and lead to suffering. Advaita Vedanta encourages us to detach from objects and to realize that our true nature is not bound by the physical world.
Hypothetically, if we give space to what may seem useless, awkward, or senseless, we can remind ourselves not to take ourselves and the physical world too seriously and to let go of our attachment to the ego's desire for control and meaning-making. This can promote a more peaceful and harmonious environment for ourselves and those around us.
Furthermore, detaching ourselves from high expectations on external factors and pursuits can provide more avenues for accessing our inner consciousness and returning to the present moment. This practice of detachment is essential because we cannot remain attached to one thing in particular if we want to live in harmony with the present moment. Eckhart Tolle explains in "The Power of Now" that attachment to even specific thoughts, emotions, or outcomes can create suffering and limit our ability to experience true inner peace and happiness. A Course in Miracles goes further to call material things we name and cherish as idols, reminding us that their perceived value and significance are illusory, mere projections of the egoic mind.
"An idol is a false impression or a false belief system, since it is not the truth of who we are. It is an attempt to make something external into a substitute for our true nature." (A Course in Miracles, Chapter 30)
I see a path where pleasure, learning, and meditation merge in the act of spiritual design. By using furniture and design objects, I seek to unveil the teachings of the physical world about accessing pure consciousness, employing tools beyond texts and traditional spiritual iconography. Creating a chair that transcends the labels of 'design' or 'art', serving instead as a guidepost for self-inquiry, its apparent worldly uselessness presents no issue for those dwelling in the present moment. Engaging in this state of mind encourages us to cast off the constraints of past rules and future objectives.
Spiritual design is a creative practice that embraces creativity, making, learning, and teaching as integral parts of the process. Its essence is about remembering who we indeed are. Through this practice, we access a flow that reconnects us to our inherent interconnectedness with all things, attuning us to the central broadcast of universal consciousness. Through spiritual design practice, a maker could avoid letting the past turn into regret or the future into obsession. In this practice, there are certainly benefits and advantages that are beyond my current comprehension at this time. Overall, it's a work in progress.
Next, I want to explore spiritual design to invite people to give up on any form of outcome from the work they produce, knowing that we will gain the most out of it by forgiving this world, and giving up, not everything, but every-thing. This approach to design is not about planning but rather about letting go of outcomes and allowing creativity to flow. By creating the useless, one can find actual usefulness. Through exploring the mystic philosophies in design practices, any creator could find answers to some of the questions that arise in connection with the present moment.
In spiritual design, we create with purpose and aim for awakening, using any medium accessible to the creative endeavor. An embodiment of this practice is the everyday mantra, 'Piece of Mind'. This tool assists spiritual practitioners in transcending perceived separations—from our bodies to the cosmos—that can hinder the realization of pure spirit and boundless love. Learn more about the transformative power of the phrase, 'Piece of Mind'.
*An AI language model helped revise and clarify portions of this article and assisted in sourcing specific quotes.